Knowledge and attitudes towards TB among healthcare workers in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are at an increased risk of TB worldwide. Individual knowledge and attitudes may influence HCW behaviour, and subsequently, TB risk. Indonesia has the second highest case-load globally.

To measure TB knowledge and attitudes among a subsection of HCWs in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and to explore factors associated with knowledge.

A cross-sectional study using an online survey targeting all HCW staff was conducted among HCWs from four pre-selected healthcare facilities in Yogyakarta. Descriptive analysis and a multivariable linear regression were undertaken.

Of 792 HCWs, 290 (37%) completed the survey; 64% (n = 185) were medical staff, 33% (n = 95) reported previously being tested for active TB and 8% (n = 24) for latent TB. The mean knowledge score was 7.2/11 (SD 1.5): this was higher among medical staff and those with university education (average score increase: 0.53, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.90; and 0.38, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.74, respectively). Participants agreed that free access to TB screening (93%) and treatment (93%) should be available, and 57% of medical and 77% of non-medical staff would take preventive therapy if eligible.

Participants had practical understanding of TB; however, gaps were identified in knowledge about TB disease progression and prevention. Prevention programmes were viewed positively. We suggest further TB education and engagement programmes for HCWs.